A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was sent to the Van Buren County Election Division on February 5, 2025. The request, made by St. Joe-Benton Harbor News, sought comprehensive details about the candidates running in the upcoming election.
The FOIA request specifically asked for a list of all candidates participating in the forthcoming election. This list is expected to include each candidate's first, middle, and last names. Additionally, it should detail the office for which they are running and its jurisdiction. The party affiliation of each candidate was also requested.
Furthermore, St. Joe-Benton Harbor News has requested all contact information for these candidates. This includes their address, phone number, and email address.
As a media organization dedicated to providing comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs, we at St. Joe-Benton Harbor News believe that access to public records is crucial in fulfilling our professional responsibilities. These responsibilities include holding public institutions accountable and providing transparency to the public.
Given our role in disseminating information to the public, we have requested a fee waiver as a media professional under the Michigan Freedom of Information Act § 15.231 et seq.
We remain committed to delivering accurate and comprehensive news coverage about local government affairs and elections in Michigan.
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